Nikon logoNIKKOR 
AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f/4E FL ED VR
User’s Manual

CE SYMBOL
Printed in Japan
SB3D03(6C)
7MA0216C-03

NIKON CORPORATION

Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - overview

Before using this product, please carefully read both these instructions and the camera manual.
Note: When mounted on a DX-format digital single-lens refl ex camera such as the D7200 or D5500, this lens has an angle of view of 3° 10’ and a focal length equivalent to 750 mm (35 mm format).

For Your Safety

warning 2 WARNINGS

  • Do not disassemble or modify. In the event of malfunction, the product should be repaired only by a qualified technician. Should the product break open as the result of a fall or other accident, avoid touching exposed parts. Failure to observe these precautions could result in electric shock or other injury.
  • Turn the camera off immediately in the event of malfunction. Should you notice smoke or an unusual smell coming from the equipment, immediately unplug the AC adapter and remove the camera battery, taking care to avoid burns. Continued operation could result in fi re or injury. After removing the battery, take the equipment to a Nikon-authorized service center for inspection.
  • Keep dry. Do not expose the product to water or handle with wet hands.
    Failure to observe this precaution could result in fire or electric shock.
  • Do not use in the presence of flammable gas. Operating the equipment at filling stations or in the presence of propane or other flammable gas or dust could result in explosion or fire.
  • Do not look at the sun through the lens or the camera viewfinder. Viewing the sun or other bright light source through the lens or viewfinder could cause permanent visual impairment.

warning 2 CAUTIONS

  • Keep out of reach of children. Failure to observe this precaution could result in injury or product malfunction.
  • Do not focus sunlight through the lens. Sunlight focused through the lens could cause fire. When shooting backlit subjects keep the sun well out of the frame; if the lens will not be used for an extended period, replace the lens caps and store out of direct  sunlight.
  • Do not overheat. Do not leave the product in locations exposed to extremely high temperatures, such as in an enclosed vehicle in direct sunlight, or wrap the product in a towel or handkerchief or otherwise cover the product while it is in use. Failure to  observe these precautions could result in fire or product malfunction.

■ Parts of the Lens

1. Rubber grip
2. Focus function button (focus lock/ memory recall/AF start)
3. Focus ring
4. Focus distance indicator
5. Focus distance mark
6. Lens rotation index
7. Lens mounting mark
8. Rubber lens-mount gasket
9. CPU contacts
10.  Slip-in filter holder
11. Slip-in filter holder screw
12. Strap eyelet
13. Tripod collar ring attachment screw
14. Built-in rotating tripod collar
15. Focus-mode switch
16. Focus limit switch
17. Vibration reduction switch
18. Focus function selector (AF-L/MEMORY RECALL/AF-ON)
19. Beep on/off switch
20. Memory set button
21. Security slot (for security cable lock)
22. Lens hood
23. Lens hood screw
24. Replaceable monopod collar

■ Compatibility

This lens can be used with D4-series, D3-series, Df, D810-series, D800-series, D750, D700, D610, D600, D300-series, D7200, D7100, D7000, D5500, D5300, D5200, D5100, D5000, D3300, D3200, and D3100 cameras. For up-to-date information on  compatible cameras, see our latest catalogs or visit the Nikon website for your area.

■ Focus

Supported focus modes are shown in the following table (for information on camera focus modes, see the camera manual).

Camera focus mode Lens focus mode
A/M M/A M
Al Autofocus with manual override
(AF priority)
Autofocus with manual override
(manual priority)
Manual focus with electronic rangefinder
MF Manual focus with electronic rangefinder

M/A and A/M Modes

Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - MOdes

  • M/A: Autofocus can be over-ridden by rotating the lens focus ring.
  • A/M: As above, except that the focus ring must be rotated farther before autofocus is over-ridden, preventing accidental changes to focus caused by unintended operation of the focus ring.
  1. Slide the lens focus-mode switch to A/M or M/A.
  2. Focus.

If desired, autofocus can be over-ridden by rotating the lens focus ring while the shutter-release button is pressed halfway (or if the camera is equipped with an AF-ON button, while the AF-ON button is pressed, or if the focus function selector is set to AF-ON, while pressing a focus function button). To refocus using autofocus, press the shutter-release button halfway or press the AF-ON or focus function button again.

The Focus Limit Switch
This switch determines the focus distance limits for autofocus.

Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Switch

  • FULL: Select this option to use the entire focus range.
  • ∞–8 m: If your subject will always be at distance of at least 8 m (26.3 ft), select this option for faster focusing.

■ The Focus Function Buttons and Selector

The function assigned to the focus function buttons can be selected using the focus function selector.Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Switch 2

Focus function selector Focus function button
AF-L Focus lock
MEMORY RECALL Memory recall
AF-ON Lens AF start

Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Button

Focus Lock (AF-L)
Focus lock is only available with autofocus.

  1. Slide the lens focus-mode switch to A/M or M/A.
  2. Slide the focus function selector to AF-L.
  3. Lock focus.

Focus can be locked by pressing any of the focus function buttons and remains locked while the button is pressed. Focus can also be locked using camera controls.

Memory Recall
Save and recall frequently-used lens focus positions.

Saving Focus PositionsNikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Saving Focus Positions

  1. Slide the beep on/off switch to Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - icon.
  2. Focus.
  3. Press the memory set button.

This operation can be performed in any focus mode regardless of the position of the focus function selector. A beep will sound if the operation is successful. If the operation fails, the focus distance indicator will revolve back and forth some ten times and the lens will sound a short beep followed by three long beeps; focus and press the memory set button again. The stored distance is not deleted if the camera is turned off or the lens is detached.

Using Stored Focus Positions

  1. Slide the focus function selector to MEMORY RECALL.
  2. Recall the stored focus distance.

Press any of the focus function buttons to focus at the stored distance. The camera will refocus at the stored distance even when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway; normal focus is restored when the focus function button is released. Keep the focus function button pressed until the photograph is taken.

The Beep on/off Switch
The beep on/off switch can be used to enable or mute the beep that sounds during memory set and recall operations.Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Switch 3

  • Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - icon: Beep enabled.
  • Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - icon 2: Beep muted.

AF Start (AF-ON)

  1. Slide the lens focus-mode switch to A/M or M/A.
  2. Slide the focus function selector to AF-ON.
  3. Focus.

Press any of the focus function buttons to focus using autofocus. You can also focus using camera controls.

■ Depth of Field

If the camera offers depth-of-field preview (stop down), depth of field can be previewed in the viewfinder.

■ Aperture

Aperture is adjusted using camera controls. The frame rate may drop at some apertures.

■ Vibration Reduction (VR)

Vibration reduction (VR) reduces blur caused by camera shake, allowing shutter speeds up to 4.0 stops slower than would otherwise be the case, increasing the range of shutter speeds available. The effects of VR on shutter speed are measured in NORMAL mode according to Camera and Imaging Products Association (CIPA) standards; FX-format lenses are measured using FX-format digital cameras, DX-format lenses using DX-format cameras. Zoom lenses are measured at maximum zoom.

Using the Vibration Reduction Switch

Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Switch 4

  • Select OFF to turn vibration reduction off .
  • Select NORMAL for enhanced vibration reduction when photographing stationary subjects. Vibration reduction takes effect when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway.
  • Select SPORT photographing athletes and other subjects that are moving rapidly and unpredictably. Vibration reduction takes eff ect when the shutter-release button is pressed halfway.

Using Vibration Reduction: Notes

  • When using vibration reduction, press the shutter-release button halfway and wait for the image in the viewfinder to stabilize before pressing the shutter-release button the rest of the way down.
  • When vibration reduction is active, the image in the viewfinder may be blurred after the shutter is released. This does not indicate a malfunction.
  • SPORT is recommended for panning shots, although NORMAL is also supported.
  • In NORMAL and SPORT modes, vibration reduction applies only to motion that is not part of a pan (if the camera is panned horizontally, for example, vibration reduction will be applied only to vertical shake).
  • Do not turn the camera off or remove the lens while vibration reduction is in effect. If power to the lens is cut while vibration reduction is on, the lens may rattle when shaken. This is not a malfunction, and can be corrected by reattaching the lens and turning the camera on.
  • If the camera is equipped with a built-in flash, vibration reduction will be disabled while the flash charges.
  • NORMAL and SPORT vibration reduction can reduce blur when the camera is mounted on a tripod. OFF may however produce better results in some cases depending on the type of tripod and on shooting conditions.
  • NORMAL and SPORT are recommended if the camera is mounted on a monopod.

■ The Lens Hood

Lens hoods protect the lens and block stray light that would otherwise cause flare or ghosting.Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - The Lens Hood

Fully tighten the hood screw (②).

Vignetting may occur if the hood is not correctly attached. The hood can be reversed and mounted on the lens when not in use.

■ Using a Built-in Rotating Tripod Collar

Attach tripods to the lens tripod collar, not the camera. Note that your hand may come into contact with the tripod if you rotate the camera while holding it by the handgrip. The tripod collar can be detached by undoing the tripod collar lock screw; for more information, contact a Nikon-authorized service representative.

Repositioning the CameraNikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Repositioning the CameraLoosen the tripod collar ring attachment screw (1), match the lens rotation index (2) to the camera orientation, and then tighten the screw (3).

The Monopod Collar
The supplied replaceable monopod collar can be used in place of the tripod collar. After replacing the collar, be sure the collar lock is fully tightened. Failure to observe this precaution could result in damage to the lens or camera.

■ The Security Slot

The security slot can be used to attach third-party security cable locks. For more information, see the documentation provided with the security cable lock.

■ Filters

When taking photographs with the slip-in filter holder, be sure a filter is inserted. The holder comes with a neutral color (NC) filter in place.

Inserting Filters

Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Inserting Filters Nikon AFS500 AF S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR - Inserting Filters 2
  1. Unlock the holder.
    Press the slip-in filter holder screw down and rotate counterclockwise until the white line is at a right angle to the axis of the lens.
  2. Remove the slip-in filter holder.
  3. Remove the supplied filter.
  4. Screw a 40.5 mm screw-on filter into the side of the holder marked “Nikon” and “JAPAN”.
    The holder can then be reinserted facing either the subject or camera.

Using an Optional Slip-in C-PL405 Circular Polarizing Filter
The C-PL405 blocks unwanted reflections from glass, water, and other non-metallic surfaces. The slip-in filter holder is not required; when using the filter, be sure that it is securely attached and be aware that it is not dust- or splash-proof. Note that using a C-PL405 slightly increases the minimum focus distance and shifts the focus distance from that shown by the focus distance indicator. When using memory recall, be sure to attach the fi lter before storing the focus position.
Do not leave the CP-PL405 for long periods in direct sunlight or in locations that are exposed to excessive humidity or high temperatures.

■ Lens Care

  • The lens returns to maximum aperture when removed from the camera. To protect the interior of the lens, store it out of direct sunlight or replace the lens cap.
  • Always support the lens when holding the camera. Failure to observe this precaution could damage the lens mount.
  • Do not pick up or hold the lens or camera using only the lens hood.
  • Keep the CPU contacts clean.
  • Should the rubber lens-mount gasket be damaged, cease use immediately and take the lens to a Nikon-authorized service center for repair.
  • Use a blower to remove dust and lint from the lens surfaces.
  • To remove smudges and fingerprints from glass surfaces, apply a small amount of ethanol or lens cleaner to a soft, clean cotton cloth or lenscleaning tissue and clean from the center outwards using a circular motion, taking care not to leave smears or touch the glass with your fingers.
  • The fluorine-coated front element can be cleaned simply by wiping it with a dry cloth. Smudges and fingerprints can be removed using a soft, clean cotton cloth or lens cleaning tissue; clean from the center outwards using a circular motion, taking care not  to leave smears or touch the glass surface with your fingers. To remove stubborn stains, wipe gently using a soft cloth dampened with a small amount of distilled water, ethanol, or lens cleaner. Drop-shaped stains on the water- and oil-repellent fluorine-coated element can be removed with a dry cloth.
  • Never use organic solvents such as paint thinner or benzene to clean the lens.
  • Attach the rear and slip-on front caps before placing the lens in its lens case.
  • If the lens will not be used for an extended period, store it in a cool, dry location to prevent mold and rust. Do not store in direct sunlight or with naphtha or camphor moth balls.
  • Keep the lens dry. Rusting of the internal mechanism can cause irreparable damage.
  • Leaving the lens in extremely hot locations could damage or warp parts made from reinforced plastic.
  • Taking the lens from a warm to a cold environment or vice versa may cause damaging condensation inside and outside the lens. Place the lens in a sealed bag or plastic case before taking it across a temperature boundary. The lens can be taken from the bag or case once it has had time to adjust to the new temperature.
  • Creases will form if the supplied slip-on front cap is folded, but this does not prevent the cap from being used.
  • Do not sit or stand on the case.
  • Nikon does not accept liability for damage to or theft of devices protected by security cables.

■ Supplied Accessories

  • Slip-on front lens cap
  • Rear Lens Cap LF-4
  • Lens Hood HK-34
  • Slip-in filter holder
  • 40.5 mm screw-in NC filter
  • Strap LN-2
  • Heavy duty case CT-505
  • Monopod collar

■ Compatible Accessories

  • 40.5 mm screw-on filters
  • Slip-in circular polarizing filter C-PL405
  • AF-I/AF-S Teleconverters TC-14E /TC-14E II /TC-14E III/TC-17E II /TC-20E / TC-20E II /TC-20E III

■ Specifications

Type Type E AF-S lens with built-in CPU and F mount
Focal length 500 mm
Maximum aperture f/4
Lens construction 16 elements in 12 groups (including 3 ED lens elements, 2 fluorite elements, and lens elements with Nano-Crystal coatings) and 1 protective glass element (with fluorine coating)
Angle of view •Nikon FX-format D-SLR cameras: 5° 00′
•Nikon DX-format D-SLR cameras: 3° 10′
Distance information Output to camera
Focusing Nikon Internal Focusing (IF) System with autofocus controlled by Silent Wave Motor and separate focus ring for manual focus
Vibration reduction Lens shift using voice coil motors (VCMs)
Focus distance indicator 3.6 m – ∞
Minimum focus distance 3.6 m (11.9ft) from focal plane
Diaphragm blades 9 (rounded diaphragm opening)
Diaphragm Automatic electronic aperture control
Aperture range f/4— 22
Metering Full aperture
Focus limit switch Two positions: FULL (∞ -3.6 m) and ∞ — 8 m
Dimensions Approx. 140 mm maximum diameter x 387 mm (distance from camera lens mount flange)
Weight Approx. 3090 g (6 lb 13 oz)

Nikon reserves the right to change the specifications of the hardware described in this manual at any time and without prior notice.

Nikon logo

Documents / Resources

Nikon AFS500 AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR [pdf] User Manual
AFS500 AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR, AFS500, AF-S NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR, NIKKOR 500mm f 4E FL ED VR, 500mm f 4E FL ED VR, 4E FL ED VR

References

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